New Jersey

May 28, State #8 New Jersey. Rocky, but not as bad as PA. Way more views too. I've felt since the end of the Shenandoahs that the trail is just a connector between the southern mountains and New England. I wonder when I'll feel that the trail itself is a destination again. I'm getting tired of these long, view-less ridges and easy walking. I want to do some real mountain climbing again! Passed Sunfish Pond...the southernmost glacial pond on the AT. Very pretty, but plastered with No camping and No swimming signs. I finally met Rocker, Rooster, Snow White, 40oz (they've been just ahead of me the whole trip).

May 30, took the side trail to New Jersey's highest point, home to a large obelisk monument (like the Washington Monument in DC). I climbed up the humid tower but the views were almost the same as from the base. This afternoon the trail dropped off the ridge into farmland and swamps. I got to Unionville NY to resupply and camp in the park, only to find out there's no camping anymore. Luckily the Outhouse Hostel is in town. $10 donation for bunk, shower, laundry, dinner, and breakfast. Sweet deal, plus a southbounder I met on the road right before here paid for me. Trail Magic!!!